As fast as the counter service! (abbeynational.co.uk)

Member Name: IanPaterson

Product:	abbeynational.co.uk
Date:	29/08/00 (39 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Net connection not modem

Disadvantages: Slow site access, long passwords etc.

I found out about online banking with Abbey National through their cash point machines, not by a mail circular. You can order your password PIN while taking out cash and it gets to you in about 5 days, password first by letter, PIN by secure tear-apart envelope.

When you first log on, you need your Abbey card number, you have to change your password and PIN. Your password has to be a minimum of 8 characters and your PIN has to be a minimum of 5 unique numbers. Get these worked out first! I always have problems with thinking up passwords and remembering them afterwards.

When logged on, it is all straightforward. Look at your statements, move cash between accounts, cancel or create standing orders. All very nice and you can do it over the net at work you don't have to do it by modem like Midland Bank.

The problem is the site is a bit slow and takes a while to refresh screens. The other problem is it does not give the description of direct debits or standing orders it only gives you the transaction ID like DD14 or ST01.

Apart from that, it is a reliable service.

Summary: